If the Maple Leafs feel as if they are taking on some kind of all-star team tonight at the HSBC Arena, they have good reason to think that way.

Three Buffalo Sabres -- forward Daniel Briere, defenceman Brian Campbell and goalie Ryan Miller -- were voted in as starters for the NHL's annual showcase of elite talent, which takes place in Dallas on Jan. 24.

HISTORIC TRIO

Never before in NHL history had a trio of teammates been elected in fan balloting to start an all-star game.

A handful of others, including forwards Maxim Afinogenov, Thomas Vanek, Jason Pominville and Chris Drury, could be added this weekend to round out the Eastern Conference team, which fittingly will be coached by Buffalo's Lindy Ruff.